This week is typically the busiest week of the year in Big Bear. Most folks get some vacation time, and what better way to spend it, than in the mountains. If you want a white Christmas, you don't have many choices in Southern California.
Big Bear Lake looks absolutely stunning under its carpet of winter snow, and the skiing is fantastic.
The only problem is getting here. All three routes into Big Bear are only two lanes, and with thousands of motorists coming up at the same time, traffic can get slow. With snow and ice, it becomes even more difficult. Please keep this in mind when making the journey up here.
Allow at least an extra hour for unforeseen events and traffic jams. It may be just me, but it seems like there are many people who are bad drivers even in perfect weather. With winter conditions, the rate goes up dramatically. Always keep a good cushion from the car in front of you due to the ice on the road. Many times, you will start to slide when you apply the brakes, if you don't take this into account, a fender bender is a likely occurrence.
Inevitably, you will get stuck behind someone who seems incapable of getting out of first gear. This person will go 35 mph in a 55 zone and not give a hoot that he has 20 cars in a line behind him. The word turnout does not exist in this persons vocabulary, and never will. Unfortunately, passing lanes are few and far between on our mountain roads, and you may be stuck behind " The Turtle " for a long period of time.
The only advice I can offer is to put on some music you really enjoy and take the time to enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery as you slowly make your way to our wonderful town.
It is worth the wait!
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